Ranchers' RoundUp - February 2024

Ranchers’

RoundUp The Official Publication of the Dobson Ranch Homeowners Association

In this issue:

How to get around in the digital Ranchers’ Roundup page 1

Latest Developements in Mesa’s Fiber Optic Initiative page 9

Debunking the Myths of Older Adult Falls page 12

FEBRUARY 2024

THE DOBSON ASSOCIATION

TABLE OF CONTENTS

FEBRUARY 2024

THE DOBSON ASSOCIATION ADMINISTRATION OFFICE 2719 S. Reyes, Mesa, AZ 85202 480-831-8314 Monday through Friday: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm Closed Saturday, Sunday and Holidays LA CASITA RECREATION CENTER 2719 S. Reyes, Mesa, AZ 85202 Monday through Friday: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm Saturday through Sunday: 8:00 am - 7:00 pm

WHAT ARE QR CODES? PAGE 5 1 | BELLS & WHISTLES How to get around in the digital Ranchers’ RoundUp 3 | HOA News & Updates 6 | Recreation and Lifestyle 7 | DOBSON RANCH CLUBS

Articles from: Pickleball & Women’s Club

9 | CITY OF MESA •

Latest Developments in Mesa’s Fiber Optic Initiative

•

Empowering Parents Through MPS Parent University Program

12 | HEALTH & WELL-BEING

Debunking the myths of Older Adult Falls

13 | The “New” Conservation Corner Let’s Jump Right In!

dobsonranchhoa.com

SARATOGA RECREATION CENTER POOL 2345 S Saratoga, Mesa, AZ 85202 Monday through Sunday: 8:00 am - 9:00 pm Holidays: 8:00 am - 9:00 pm LOS ALTOS LEISURE POOL 2524 W. Campo Alegre Monday through Sunday: 8:00 am - 9:00 pm Holidays: 8:00 am - 9:00 pm IF YOU NEED ASSISTANCE PLEASE CONTACT THE ADMINISTRATION OFFICE DIRECTLY WITH CONCERNS, COMMENTS OR SUGGESTIONS. ADMINISTRATION & MAINTENANCE hoa.admin@dobsonranch.com communications@dobsonranch.com collections@dobsonranch.com compliance@dobsonranch.com Fran Pawlak, Executive Director Marc Diaz, Landscape & Maintenance Supervisor Akina Trimmer, Accounting Manager Jonathan Lefler, Code Compliance Specialist Chad Turner, Communications Administrator RECREATION & LIFESTYLE recreation@dobsonranch.com Jackie Hutton, Recreation Facilities Supervisor Joel Harbison, Recreation Coordinator Jessi Feltmann, Preschool Teacher Bari Warnick, Preschool Assistant Ranchers’ Roundup: The articles and comments in this monthly publication are intended to inform, illustrate or provide explanation to members of the Association, and do not necessarily serve as official opinions of the Board of Directors, staff, nor its members. As such, we do not make any representation as to the validity or qualifications of any advertiser or contributor.

For the most accurate and up to date info please subscribe to our weekly email updates.

CLICK HERE TO SUBSCRIBE! THE DOBSON ASSOCIATION

BELLS & WHISTLES

FEBRUARY 2024

HOW TO GET AROUND IN

THE DIGITAL RANCHERS’ ROUNDUP This year starting as of January 1, 2024, Dobson Ranch has decided the Ranchers’ RoundUp will go digital. This may not be welcomed by some, but in the bigger picture of the HOA budget and the growing capabilities of technology, this makes sense.

This article is here to guide you through the nuances of the digital copy, as well as the bells and whistles that make reading the Ranchers’ RoundUp more enjoyable. On a side note, their will also be 200 printed copies in the HOA office for residents starting in March.

The first change you ultimately came across was the platform in which you have received the January issue. We are using a digital platform called Issuu. They are one of the leading companies many popular magazines have relied on to present their magazines reputation to the world.

CLICK ON THE TITLE of the article and read it in a mobile friendly version.

Such magazines include: Sunset and Bridal Guide. Many more magazines you know and possible read use Issuu for their publication quality and ease of use.

Articles in mobile friendly mode!

You have the option to read the articles in each publication of Ranchers’ RoundUp in a mobile friendly mode, allowing for easy reading on the go. Click on the title of the article you wish to read and within a second or two, you are transported into a mobile version of the article. A list of articles will be shown as an example IS shown above.

If you have any questions regarding the digital Ranchers’ RoundUp, please reach out to communications@dobsonranch.com.

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IMPORTANT CONTACTS

FEBRUARY 2024

All events are subject to change. Visit the Events Calendar at dobsonranchhoa.com for updated info.

JOIN THE CLUB FAMILY ENGAGEMENT CLUB & MOM’S CLUB Christa Tropin, Chairperson at ctropin@dobsonranch.com.

DOBSON RANCH COMMUNITY CLUB Kate O’Hara, Chairperson at azkateo@gmail.com.

WRITERS CLUB Chad Turner, Chairperson at ctproductionz@gmail.com.

LINE DANCING CLUB & HIKING CLUB Barbara Stout, Chairperson at stoutgeo@gmail.com.

RETIREES’ CLUB & BRIDGE CLUB Jean Brown, President at jeansponderbrown@gmail.com RETIREES’ CYCLING CLUB Arnie Chase, Chairperson - 480-838-4124.

PICKLEBALL CLUB Rich Bitner at rebitner@cs.com WOMEN’S CLUB Patty Smith, President at smiths1975@cox.net.

SMALL BUSINESS CLUB Nikki Ausdemore 480-628-6730 nikki@orangeblossombookkeepingaz.com.

YACHT CLUB Wes Ver Woert, Chairman at WesV56@gmail.com.

DEMOCRATS & FRIENDS CLUB George Tihanyi at 480-792-6746 or Kerry Lengel at kerrylengel@gmail.com.

REPUBLICANS CLUB Michelle Masters, Chairperson at DobsonRanchGOP@gmail.com.

INDEPENDENTS CLUB Jack Wagner, Chairman at golfingjack@msn.com.

YOYO CLUB Chad Robinson, Chairman at dryoyoclub@gmail.com.

Instagram @dryoyoclub.

Committees & Sub-Associations CC&R COMMITTEE (AD-HOC) Kathleen Tolar, Chairperson at ktolar@dobsonranch.com.

BUDGET & FINANCE COMMITTEE Spencer Jarvis, Chairperson at jarvis.spencer@gmail.com.

ARCHITECTURAL COMMITTEE Nicole Lynam, Chairperson at nlynam@dobsonranch.com.

MASTER PLANNING COMMITTEE Tim McElrath, Chairperson at tim@mcelrath.me.

RECREATION COMMITTEE Rich Bitner, Chairperson at rebitner@cs.com.

WATER & LAKE MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE Ed Ricci, Chairperson at edricci@oxbyel.com PRESCHOOL COMMITTEE (AD-HOC) Christa Tropin, Chairperson at ctropin@dobsonranch.com

Dobson Bay Club • Ogden Mgmt. • 480-622-3445 Dobson Ranch Condos • United HOA • 480-567-9791 Dobson Glen • Trestle Mgmt. • 480-422-0888 Dobson Greens • Self Managed • 480-839-9079 Dobson Villas • Peterson Company • 480-513-6846 Laguna Village • Brown Community Mgmt. • 480-839-8013 Lake Park Village • Tri-City Property Mgmt. • 480-844-2224 The Landings • Brown Community Mgmt. • 480-339-8806 Legante Paseo • Trestle Mgmt. • 480-422-0888 Water Works • Associated Property Mgmt. • 480-941-1077 Wood Creek Townhomes • City Property • 602-437-4777

City Contacts Vice Mayor Francisco Heredia – District 3 District3@mesaaz.gov - 480-644-3003 Animal Control (Cruelty, Barking) - 480-644-2268 Code Compliance - 480-644-2061 Utilities, Solid Waste & Water - 480-644-2221 Graffiti Hotline - 480-644-3083 Housing, Community Development - 480-644-3536 Mesa Public Library - 480-644-3100 Mesa Fire & Medical, Non-Emergency - 480-644-2400 Mesa Parks & Recreation - 480-644-2211 Mesa Police Department, Non-Emergency - 480-644-2211 Mesa Police Headquarters/Info - 480-644-2324 Fiesta Patrol Division - 480-644-2614

Neighborhood Outreach - 480-644-5700 Household Hazardous Materials Center - 480-644-4463 Green Pool Issue - 602-506-6616 Streetlight Hotline - 480-644-3191 Transportation (Street Lights, Potholes) - 480-644-2160 Transit - 480-644-5541 Volunteer - 480-644-5432 Utility Emergency (Water) - 480-644-2262 Crime Prevention/Neighborhood Watch - 480-644-2539 AZ Blue Stake - 602-263-1100 Salt River Project - 602-236-8888 Homeless Liaison Officer Cook - 480-228-1449 THE DOBSON ASSOCIATION 2

HOA NEWS & UPDATES Message From the Association President

Executive Director’s Message

By Nicole Lynam, Association President In the face of recent challenges, our community has seen inspiring individuals step forward to volunteer and unite us. As the proud residents of Dobson Ranch, we often declare it to be “The Best Place to Live,” a truth made evident by the people within it. Contributing to the well-being of our neighbors and supporting our community can be immensely satisfying.

To continue shaping our collective future, we are seeking volunteers for crucial roles. The Board of Directors election is approaching, and serving on the Board is an opportunity to influence key decisions and address the needs of residents in collaboration with staff, committees, and fellow residents.

We’re also looking for dedicated volunteers for our committees, which play a vital role in different aspects of Dobson Ranch.

These committees include Architectural, Budget and Finance, Master Planning, Recreation, and Water & Lake Management.

Additionally, ad hoc committees may form for short-term projects or emerging needs.

Excitingly, our community now boasts 17 active Community Clubs, covering diverse interests such as writing, recreation, community involvement, parenting, retirees, local businesses, line dancing, and even a Yo-Yo Club. Run by volunteer residents, these clubs organize activities and events to foster connections, offering shared interests and a sense of belonging.

If you’re passionate about positively impacting our community, consider volunteering for the Board, a committee, or attend one of our vibrant clubs. Your involvement, in any capacity, contributes to the ongoing success and growth of Dobson Ranch.

Join us in making a difference!

FEBRUARY 2024

By Fran Pawlak, CMCA®, AMS®, PCAM® Executive Director

A common question I receive regarding my job is “What does an HOA Manager do?”

This question is sometimes difficult to answer in a sentence or two, and so I would like to share what the expectations are for an HOA manager. A Homeowners Association Manager must be able to wear many hats to be successful. The HOA manager often serves as a pillar for your HOA, overseeing day-to-day operations and offering critical assistance to the Board of Directors. As such, it’s important their HOA manager demonstrates specific qualities and skills while managing the community. A typical HOA Association Manager is responsible for include, but are not limited to the following: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Understand the HOA’s governing documents Ensure the HOA complies with federal, state, and local laws Help prepare the annual budget Ensure the HOA stays within budget Collects dues and assessments Oversees invoices, receivables, payables, and delinquencies Secure the right insurance policies Provide monthly management and financial reports to the Board Schedule and attend Board of Director meetings Document and keep records Enforce rules and regulations consistently Review policies and provide recommendations Reply to homeowner concerns and questions Keep residents updated through various communication outlets Maintain common areas and oversee projects Help facilitate Board elections Ensures taxes are prepared Advise the board on various matters and decisions Coordinate with professionals such as attorneys, accountants, reserve specialists, etc.

Exhibits integrity, character and a good work ethic.

Leads the team!

As you can see from the list above, an HOA manager wears many hats simultaneously! It is my hope that by sharing this list, you will have a greater understanding of the work that not only I do, but that would not be possible without the assistance of a great staff!

All the best, Fran

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DOBSON RANCH HOA Call for Board of Director Candidates

Now is the perfect opportunity to serve your community! Three seats are open on the Board of Directors and each position is for a 3-year term starting April 2024. The Board of Directors is responsible for making sound decisions and setting policy.

It is an endeavor that requires a time commitment of monthly board meetings, and executive sessions.

To apply, please visit dobsonranchhoa.com/call-for-candidates, complete the application and email to hoa.admin@dobsonranch.com, by February 10, 2024. Please include a bio and photo of yourself to be included in the March 2024 issue of the Ranchers’ RoundUp.

FEBRUARY 2024

Dobson Ranch Board of Directors Nicole Lynam Association President nlynam@dobsonranch.com

Kathleen Tolar Vice President ktolar@dobsonranch.com

Stephanie Fee Treasurer stephaniefee@dobsonranch.com

Michael Snedeker Secretary msnedeker@dobsonranch.com

Sandy Murray Director sandymurray@dobsonranch.com

Richard Bitner Director rebitner@cs.com

Randy Harvey Director rharvey@dobsonranch.com

Christa Tropin Director ctropin@dobsonranch.com

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LEARNING CENTER

FEBRUARY 2024

WHAT ARE THESE SQUARE BAR CODES WE KEEP SEEING EVERYWHERE? Have you ever been out and about whether at a grocery store, a restaraunt, the mall or even reading a magazine or newspaper and have come across this square bar code?

These are the lates in mobile technology. It is a way to convey a wide variety of information almost instantly from the scan of a mobile device.

In our efforts to connect with the residents of Dobson Ranch, you will begin to see these QR codes around the Dobson Ranch Recreation Centers, meeting spaces, and possibly along common areas. Take a moment and scan these QR codes with your phone and get connected to the latest news from your Dobson Ranch Homeowners Association. Once the QR code is scanned, you will be able to sign up for the weekly Email Updates from our Executive Director, view our social media, visit our website and more.

TO SCAN: Using your phone, open the camera and point it towards the QR code. Wait for a link to appear, then click it.

Don’t worry if you can’t connect to the Dobson Ranch HOA from the QR Code, come into the HOA office at La Casita and we will be happy to help you connect on your mobile device.

Nowadays, the newer versions of smartphones have an integrated QR Code reader in the phone camera, but no worries. If your phone does not have a QR Code reader, there are a plethora of options in the app stores that are easy to download and use with just the touch of a button. Try it out next time you see one. https://linktr.ee/dobsonranch 5 THE DOBSON ASSOCIATION

RECREATION & LIFESTYLE

FEBRUARY 2024

TABLE TENNIS (DROP-IN) When: Fridays Where: La Casita Recreation Center Time: 2:30 pm - 4:00 pm

Texas Hold ’Em Tournament Style Poker (Must be 18 or older) When: Fourth Friday of the month Where: La Casita Recreation Center

Table tennis is available for Dobson Ranch residents only. Players must be ages 13 or older to participate or if younger, accompanied by an adult. Paddles and balls are free to rent with a driver’s license or school ID. To join the group, email Frank Mizner at planner1948@gmail.com.

Time: 6:30 pm (arrive by 6:15 pm) Cost: Free to residents, $5 non-residents.

RETIREES’ GAME DAY When: 1st Thursday & 3rd Friday Where: La Casita Recreation Center Time: 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm Come and enjoy some social time with the group of Dobson Ranch retirees’.

LINE DANCING When: Tuesdays Where: La Casita Recreation Center Time: 9:00 am - 11:00 am Are you interested in Line Dancing? It’s open to everyone, not just the ladies. We dance to various music. It’s mostly an exercise class. Bring your own water.

Email list: stoutgeo@gmail.com

To join the group, please email Frank Mizner at planner1948@gmail.com.

BUNCO When: Every Third Friday Where: La Casita Recreation Center Time: 6:30 pm (arrive by 6:15 pm) Cost: Free to residents, $5 non-residents To join the group, please email Carolyn Sedlak at fpsedlak@yahoo.com.

BRIDGE When: Mondays Where: La Casita Recreation Center Time: 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm Cost: $1.00 per player To join the group, please email Susan Toevs at suzila@aol.com.

THE DOBSON ASSOCIATION 6

DOBSON RANCH CLUBS

FEBRUARY 2024

Another Year At Dobson Ranch Pickleball Is Underway With Strong Attendance---Morning and Night!!

by Rich Bitner - Recreation Committee Pickleball Representative

Pickleball at the Ranch is off to a strong start in 2024. We are regularly using 5 or 6 courts in our morning drop-in play, and night play exceeds that on a regular basis. We will stay on winter hours until the heat starts coming back and the sun comes up earlier. Morning “Drop-In Play” starts officially at 8 am Monday, Wednesday, Friday, as well as Saturday, including holidays (usually), although we do have a regular cadres of players that like to start at sunrise. If you’re a late starter, we also have players staying until 10:30am or so. Evening “Drop-In Play” continues on Monday and Thursday from 6pm to 10pm under the lights.

Reports tell us that other nights are busy as well. Again, if you come out for evening play you may find some people starting at 4pm as well.

Join in and talk to your neighbors and you will surely find people to play with at various starting times, so you can easily arrange your own foursomes to play on your own schedule. Courts are open from sunrise until 10pm under the lights at our Los Altos Courts, located in the neighborhood north of Baseline at 2524 W Campo Alegre Cir, Mesa, AZ 85202. As the courts continue to become more congested with the increasing popularity of the sport, particularly in the evenings, please remember that “Drop-In Play” means everyone takes turns and should be ready to play with any others on the court who are waiting with you to be next. In addition to the Los Altos courts, Dobson Ranch also has four courts at Saratoga that are available for play at the same times throughout the week on a first come basis. Saratoga Recreation Center is located at 2345 S Saratoga, Mesa, AZ 85202.

Please contact Rich Bitner (rebitner@cs.com) for further information about morning play, to get referrals for professional instruction, and to get on our email list for announcements regarding pickleball schedules, weather issues, maintenance and other activities. Please contact Donna Ransom at donna85202@gmail.com to get on her email list for Monday and Thursday night play. Don’t forget to wear appropriate court shoes and make sure you are hydrating, sun screening, stretching and warming up as needed. Pickle-ON!!

Dobson Ranch Women’s Club In The Community

by Patty Smith - Women’s Club President

Happy Valentine’s Day (2/14) and here’s to Presidents Day too (2/19).

Bunco was hosted by Pauline and Miss Truffles. It was a Pot Luck. Such a yummy selection. Thank you, Pauline. We appreciated your warm and welcoming hospitality.

For our community service project, we donated to the MCC Food Pantry. Thank you for your generous donations. The Students were very grateful.

We went out to Lunch at Longhorns in Mesa. It always has good food and service. Happy Valentine’s Day and President’s Day. Blessings, Patty 7 THE DOBSON ASSOCIATION

LOCAL COMMUNITY

FEBRUARY 2024

Help support our local community efforts. A donation bin will be located inside the La Casita Recreation Center.

You have until February 3rd to donate items listed below. Thank you for your generosity.

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CITY OF MESA

FEBRUARY 2024

Latest Developements in Mesa’s Fiber Optic Initiative Monthly Update from Vice Mayor Heredia I am thrilled to share with you the remarkable progress we’ve made over the past year in expanding our fiber optic network infrastructure. The efforts of both new and incumbent providers have resulted in 30,000 residential passings, marking a significant leap forward for our city in the digital era.

Gigapower, Google Fiber, Ubiquity, Cox, and Lumen have actively participated in this initiative, collectively building over 150 miles of fiber. The momentum continues, with an additional 850 miles either under construction or having received construction permits.

Together, we are not just meeting the current demands but laying the foundation for a digitally connected future.

I understand that progress comes with challenges.

Some of you have brought issues to my office, including concerns about communication regarding construction notices, damage to private properties, and overall frustration with the process. Your concerns are valid, and I want you to know that we are listening.

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In response to these challenges, we have taken steps to streamline the process and keep you informed. Our website has been updated to provide a comprehensive resource, offering insights into what to expect, construction support line contacts, FAQs, and general updates. I encourage you to visit www.mesaaz.gov/ residents/high-speed-internet-in-mesa for valuable information.

While most issues related to fiber optic installation can be resolved by contacting the contractors directly – and I encourage direct communication with them – I want you to know that my office is here to mediate any concerns. Feel free to reach out to us at 480-644-3003 or via email at District3@MesaAZ.gov. Your feedback is invaluable, and we are committed to ensuring you feel supported throughout this transformative process. ~Vice Mayor Heredia

MESA PUBLIC SCHOOLS

FEBRUARY 2024

Empowering Parents through Mesa Public Schools’ Parent University Program

By Laurie Struna, Media Communications Specialist, Communications and Engagement/MPS

Parents can increase their children’s academic success through school and community involvement. Parent University at Mesa Public Schools offers the best of both, empowering families, employees and community members to actively engage in their child’s learning journey.

Whether seeking information on child development or college preparation, Parent University provides an opportunity for people to sharpen their parenting skills. In 1987, James K. Zaharis, former superintendent, founded Parent University with federal Title I funding to support parent involvement activities, fostering partnerships between families, the community, and local schools. Parent University equips parents with valuable resources, tools, and knowledge to bolster their children’s academic, social, and emotional development.

Jackie Thatcher, family and community engagement supervisor, shares that Parent University continues to grow and evolve with parents’ changing needs.

Experts in the field teach a wide range of classes.

Online and in-person offerings range from academic and technology-driven classes, such as reading, and online safety, to social, emotional, and behavioral support and even yoga. Most classes are offered free of charge.

“Our parents value the flexibility and convenience of our online courses, as they can easily tune in to the

Photo by Tim Hacker

instructor and access information even while engaged in tasks like preparing dinner or other activities,” Thatcher says. “We are excited to offer some morning classes to the schedule to better meet parents’ needs.”

Alicia Berzins, retired Mesa Public Schools principal transitioned into a certified health and life coach, beginning her journey as an instructor for Parent University in 2018. Her eight-week “Stress, Anxiety and Overwhelm” course is extremely popular.

“Teaching is one of the most stressful jobs in my opinion.

The job is very demanding,” Berzins shares. “Students are coming to school with more challenges than we ever saw 20 years ago.”

Berzins saw the need for a class that could support everyone with the same kind of support and learning.

“If we can teach some of the needed skills for stress reduction to the adults, then hopefully the children in their circle of influence can benefit by watching adults regulate their nervous systems and emotions better.”

For more information, visit communityed.mpsaz.org/o/ commed/page/parentu THE DOBSON ASSOCIATION 10

KEEP MESA SAFE

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FEBRUARY 2024

FEBRUARY 2024 HEALTH & WELL-BEING Myth 5: Muscle strength and flexibility can’t be regained.

Debunking the Myths Reality: While we do lose muscle as we age, exercise can partially restore strength and flexibility. It’s never too late of Older Adult Falls to start an exercise program. Even if you’ve been a “couch Recently, Dobson Ranch began a class called Matter of Balance and these classes help reduce the accidental falls everyone may experience in their homes or outside. Most falls occur to those who are in their older years and below are the top 10 myths about older adult falls. This information is provided by the website of National Council on Aging.

Many people think falls are a normal part of aging. The truth is, they’re not. Most falls can be prevented—and you have the power to reduce your risk. To promote greater awareness and understanding, here are 10 common myths—and the reality—about older adult falls.

Myth 1: Falling happens to other people, not to me.

Reality: Many people think, “It won’t happen to me.” But the truth is that 1 in 4 older adults fall every year in the U.S. Myth 2: Falling is normal and happens as you get older.

Reality: Falling is not a normal part of aging. Strength and balance exercises, managing your medications, having your vision checked, and making your living environment safer are all steps you can take to prevent a fall.

Myth 3: If I limit my activity, I won’t fall.

Reality: Some people believe that the best way to prevent falls is to stay at home and limit activity. Not true. Performing physical activities will actually help you stay independent, as your strength and range of motion benefit from remaining active. Social activities are also good for your overall health.

Myth 4: As long as I stay at home, I can avoid falling.

Reality: Over half of all falls take place at home. Inspect your home for fall risks. Fix simple but serious hazards such as clutter, throw rugs, and poor lighting. Make simple home modifications, such as adding grab bars in the bathroom, a second handrail on stairs, and non-slip paint on outdoor steps.

potato” your whole life, becoming active now will benefit you in many ways—including protection from falls.

Myth 6: Taking medication doesn’t increase my risk of falling.

Reality: Taking any medication may increase your risk of falling. Medications affect people in many different ways and can sometimes make you dizzy or sleepy. Be careful when starting a new medication. Talk to your health care provider about potential side effects or interactions of your medications.

Myth 7: I don’t need to get my vision checked every year.

Reality: Vision is another key risk factor for falls. Aging is associated with some forms of vision loss that increase risk of falling and injury. People with vision problems are more than twice as likely to fall as those without visual impairment.

Have your eyes checked at least once a year and update your eyeglasses. For those with low vision there are programs and assistive devices that can help. Ask your optometrist for a referral.

Myth 8: Using a walker or cane will make me more dependent.

Reality: Walking aids are very important in helping many older adults maintain or improve their mobility. However, make sure you use these devices safely. Have a physical therapist fit the walker or cane to you and instruct you in its safe use.

Myth 9: I don’t need to talk to family members or my health care provider if I’m concerned about my risk of falling. I don’t want to alarm them, and I want to keep my independence.

Reality: Fall prevention is a team effort. Bring it up with your doctor, family, and anyone else who is in a position to help.

They want to help you maintain your mobility and reduce your risk of falling.

Myth 10: I don’t need to talk to my parent, spouse, or other older adult if I’m concerned about their risk of falling. It will hurt their feelings, and it’s none of my business.

Reality: Let them know about your concerns and offer support to help them maintain the highest degree of independence possible. There are many things you can do, including removing hazards in the home, installing safety features like grab bars or walk-in bathtubs, finding a falls prevention program in the community, or setting up a vision exam.

For more information on this topic, see the National Council on Aging website at www.ncoa.org.

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THE ENVIRONMENT

FEBRUARY 2024

Greetings from the “NEW” Conservation Corner!

Zoom webinar on Feb. 10 or Feb. 24 at 10:00 am.

Your 4’ - 6’ saplings will be available for pick-up this spring. More details at www.srp.net/shadetrees.

Due to changes to the RoundUp, the “Conservation Corner” is now here. Each month you will find water saving tips, environmental facts, and/or community information to help you on your conservation journey.

The 2024 SRP Water Conservation Expo is Sat., March 2 from 8:00 am - Noon at PERA (1 E. Continental Dr., Tempe 85288). This is a great family-friendly event where learning about water conservation products and rebate programs is fun. You can purchase a smart irrigation controller for $60+, shop a desert-adapted plant sale, and pick-up great SWAG. Enjoy free popcorn, coloring activities, and even a bit of snow. I don’t know who likes going more, me or my kids! Hope to see you there - www.SRP.net/expo.

Let’s jump right in with a few tips: Do you know how to save up to 2 ½ gallons of water each minute inside your home? Simply turn off the faucet while brushing your teeth! This also applies when washing your hands. There is no need to keep the water running while humming. Remember to turn off the tap while scrubbing dishes/pots/pans, too.

Good news, SRP is partnering with Trees Matter again on the Shade Tree Program. If you haven’t participated, now is your chance to get 2 free desertadapted shade trees. Register today to attend a

A MESSAGE FROM YOUR HOA: Thank you for not feeding the ducks! Bread and other foods can make ducks ill and do not contain the right nutrition or calories they need to keep warm in the winter. Rotting food pollutes their water and causes surface algae, which also kills fish and gives ducks diseases. In addition, it also makes the water smell. Feeding or disturbing wildlife is not permitted in Dobson Ranch.

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